Title: A Novel Electronic Algorithm using Host Biomarker Point-of-Care tests for the Management of Febrile Illnesses in Tanzanian children (e-POCT): A randomized, controlled non-inferiority trial
Authors: Keitel, K; Kagoro, F; Samaka, J; Masimba, J; Said, Z; Temba, H; Mlaganile, T; Sangu, W; Rambaud-Althaus, C; Gervaix, A; Genton, B; D'Acremont, V
Abstract: The management of childhood infections remains inadequate in resource-limited countries, resulting in high mortality and irrational use of antimicrobials. Current disease management tools, such as the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) algorithm, rely solely on clinical signs and have not made use of available point-of-care tests (POCTs) that can help to identify children with severe infections and children in need of antibiotic treatment. e-POCT is a novel electronic algorithm based on current evidence; it guides clinicians through the entire consultation and recommends treatment based on a few clinical signs and POCT results, some performed in all patients (malaria rapid diagnostic test, hemoglobin, oximeter) and others in selected subgroups only (C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, glucometer). The objective of this trial was to determine whether the clinical outcome of febrile children managed by the e-POCT tool was non-inferior to that of febrile children managed by a validated electronic algorithm derived from IMCI (ALMANACH), while reducing the proportion with antibiotic prescription.

Title: A Clinical Severity Scoring System for Visceral Leishmaniasis in Immunocompetent Patients in South Sudan
Authors: Kämink, SS; Collin, SM; Harrison, T; Gatluak, F; Mullahzada, AW; Ritmeijer, K
Abstract: South Sudan is one of the most endemic countries for visceral leishmaniasis (VL), and is frequently affected by large epidemics. In resource-limited settings, clinicians require a simple clinical tool to identify VL patients who are at increased risk of dying, and who need specialised treatment with liposomal amphotericin B and other supportive care. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a clinical severity scoring system based on risk factors for death in VL patients in South Sudan.